The Difference Between Half Wave and Full Wave Rectifier
Introduction
Rectification is the process of converting an alternating current (AC) waveform into a direct current (DC) waveform. Half-wave and full-wave rectifiers are two of the most commonly used rectifiers in electronic circuits.
Half-Wave Rectifier
A half-wave rectifier is a circuit that only allows half of the input voltage waveform to pass through and blocks the other half. When an AC voltage is applied to a diode, the diode only conducts when it is forward biased. In a half-wave rectifier, the diode only conducts during the positive half of the AC voltage waveform, which is then passed through a voltage regulator to produce a constant DC output voltage. However, the output voltage is only half the value of the input voltage.
Full-Wave Rectifier
A full-wave rectifier is a circuit that allows both the positive and negative halves of the AC voltage waveform to pass through, resulting in a DC output voltage that is twice the value of the input voltage. There are two types of full-wave rectifiers: center-tap and bridge.
The center-tap full-wave rectifier uses a transformer with a center-tap secondary winding. The diodes are connected between the ends of the secondary winding and the center tap. During the positive half of the AC voltage waveform, the diode connected to the end of the secondary winding conducts and charges the output capacitor. During the negative half of the waveform, the diode connected to the other end of the secondary winding conducts and charges the output capacitor with a negative voltage.
The bridge full-wave rectifier uses four diodes connected in a bridge arrangement. During the positive half of the AC voltage waveform, the diodes on one side of the bridge conduct and charge the output capacitor. During the negative half of the waveform, the diodes on the other side of the bridge conduct and charge the output capacitor with a negative voltage.
Conclusion
In summary, the main difference between a half-wave and full-wave rectifier is the efficiency of the output voltage. A full-wave rectifier produces a higher DC output voltage than a half-wave rectifier. However, full-wave rectifiers are more complex and require more components than half-wave rectifiers. The choice of a rectifier circuit depends on the specific application requirements.
Table difference between half wave and full wave rectifier
| Rectifier Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Half Wave | Simple circuit | Low efficiency |
| Full Wave | Double the output voltage of half wave rectifier | More complex circuit |